Map of Ireland showing where the Nelke arms are recorded
The Nelke arms were recorded in Ireland, c. 1645.
Arms such as these were typically recorded in Dublin.
Dublin was the seat of government in Ireland and the place where grants were sought and recorded. Families with business at the castle or the courts settled nearby, and settling there put their arms on record.
This is where the arms were entered in the register. Families often moved to other parts of the country, so the same name can turn up in more than one region.
The body that granted and recorded arms in Ireland in this period.
Charles I of England
Sovereign of the period
Charles I of England
1625–1649
Reigning in Ireland when the Nelke arms are first recorded.
How Arms Worked in Ireland
The Ulster King of Arms granted coats of arms to individuals who proved their social standing and good character. These symbols were typically inherited by all legitimate descendants of the original holder. If a family branch wanted a unique look, they could apply for a specific change to their design through the office to ensure their identity remained distinct.
Granting authority
The Ulster King of Arms acted as the official body that regulated and issued all coats of arms throughout Ireland.
How they got arms
Families obtained their arms through formal grants issued by the office after proving their eligibility and paying the required fees.
Where arms were recorded
All official grants were recorded in the registers held by the Ulster King of Arms starting from the year 1552.
The family's standing
Recorded among the armigerous families of Ireland.
Origin & History of the Nelke Family in Ireland
The surname Nelke is primarily associated with German origins, where it translates to the word for a carnation or clove. While the name is deeply rooted in Central Europe, historical records confirm that members of the family were established in Dublin as early as 1645. During this period, Dublin was a growing center for trade and military activity, which often drew skilled workers and merchants from across the European continent. Families like the Nelkes likely arrived in Ireland as part of these migration patterns, seeking new opportunities in a city that served as a vital link between Britain and the rest of Europe. Over time, these early settlers integrated into the local community, blending their continental heritage with the evolving social landscape of seventeenth-century Ireland.
Related Branches & Arms
Root word
Nagel
A German word meaning nail or spike.
This name
NelkeDerived from a nickname for a nail maker or someone with a sharp personality.
also spelled
Neel
Niel
Niall
Documented Sources
Sir Bernard Burke, The General Armory of England, Scotland, Ireland and Wales, London: Harrison & Sons, 1884
MacLysaght, Edward, The Surnames of Ireland, 1985
National Archives of Ireland, Civil Survey of the County of Dublin, 1654–1656
D’Alton, John, History of the County of Dublin, 1838
Digital archive packCoat of arms PNG, gold border print PDF, vector SVG and the certificate of authenticity. Sent to your email in minutes.
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
lionCourage, strength and royalty
chiefAuthority, wisdom and dominion
lionCourage, strength and royalty
